Mexico Tours & Trips
Peel back the lucha libre mask and you’ll find a patchwork of cultures and customs mixed into one flavor-filled country.
The gregarious locals are just as likely to pull you up for a dance at one of Mexico City’s hip-shaking salsa clubs as they are to show you the way to one of the country’s many ancient ruins, all with a casual ‘hola’ and an inviting smile. While our tours get you up close with locals, they also show you the best sights from on and off the gringo trail. You can party until dawn in Playa del Carmen, eat your way into a food coma in colorful Oaxaca, or, best of all, kick back with a horchata in the lazy seaside port of Merida.
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Best of Mexico
Mexico Real Food Adventure
Mexico Real Food Adventure
Mexico Real Food Adventure
Mexico Unplugged
Articles of Mexico
Mexico at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Mexico City (population 8.7 million)
POPULATION
129.9 million
CURRENCY
MXN
LANGUAGE
Spanish
TIME ZONE
(GMT-06:00) Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey - New
CALLING CODE
+52
ELECTRICITY
Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)
Learn more about Mexico
Best time to visit Mexico
Mexico is generally most pleasant between September and June in the cool, dry season. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and lazing on the beach. These are, however, the busiest months for travel as this is the time of the North American school holidays. Highland areas such as Chiapas and Oaxaca tend to be cooler year-round, with cold nights.
Culture and customs
Mexico lays claim to one of the richest and most historic cultures in the world. Characterized by strong regional identity, locals are affiliated directly to the region they hail from with each region having its own unique customs, cuisine and even language dialect. Despite this, national identity is still strong with all Mexicans sharing common bonds over their love of sport, dance, food and religion. With most of the country belonging to the Roman Catholic religion, religious festivals and celebrations are plentiful in Mexico. Parades, street fairs and parties held in honor of local saints are commonplace, and offer travelers the chance to witness the customs and rituals of this vibrant culture.
Eating and drinking
One of Mexico's biggest draws is its food and drink. From Oaxaca's indigenous staples to the sizzling street food of Mexico City, there's almost too much choice for the hungry traveler. By the end of your Mexico tour, you'll know your tacos from your tamales, your enchiladas from your elote and your tequila from your mezcal.
Eat your way through this vibrant country on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.
Geography and environment
Mexico shares land borders with the United States, Belize and Guatemala, and has an extensive coastline that runs along the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Featuring a wide variety of natural environments, Mexico is home to tracts of tropical rainforests, vast areas of low-lying plains and deserts, volcanic mountains and temperate beaches and lagoons.
Mexico's capital and major cities are typically built up, busy and lively – with a vast network of public transport, highways and roads. Rural areas, on the other hand, are distinctly less developed, with small-scale housing, unsealed roads and rustic farms.
History and government
Early history
People have been living in Mexico for more than 13,000 years. Mesoamericans occupied the area early on, with archaeological evidence pointing towards Mesoamericans leading a hunter-gatherer existence. Maize farming is thought to have become commonplace by 1500 BC, which led to the farming of other commodities as well. A variety of cultures contributed to the early history of Mexico, with the Olmec, Toltec, Maya, Teotihuacan and Aztecs all bringing unique cultural, religious and artistic styles to the region, with the Mayan and Aztec Empires having the greatest (and most enduring) impact on the region.
Mayan society can be traced back to 300 BC, while the Aztecs enjoyed prosperity from 1325 to around 1521 AD. Many ancient ruins and constructions from these periods are still standing all throughout Mexico and can be visited and viewed today. By the 16th century, the Spanish had arrived in Mexico and what followed was a period of colonialism that lasted nearly 300 years.
During this time, Mexico was seen as a part of ‘New Spain’ along with Cuba and Puerto Rico. This was not a particularly good time for Mexicans who (under colonial law) were generally not allowed to travel outside of Mexico and were denied access to education. Mexico achieved independence from the Spaniards after the War of Independence (1810-1821) but peace was short-lived as two decades later the Mexican-American War brought more confrontation and armed conflict to parts of Mexico.
Recent history
Mexico’s Revolution of 1910 - 1921 was a period of instability, marked by political turmoil and bloodshed. More recently, Mexico has enjoyed an economic resurgence after decades of economic hardship, which lasted from the 1970s to the mid-1990s. The earthquake of 1985 didn’t help matters, with wide-scale damage and loss of life compounding the economic problems and political uncertainty of Mexico. Currently, Mexico is benefiting from a period of improved economic conditions, although the gap between the wages earned by Mexicans and their northern neighbors continues to widen. Mexico is now operating in a free market economy and the growth of tourism, agriculture and industry has ensured an improved economy for the country, although financial inequality still exists within.
Memorable moments of Mexico
1. Ramble among the ruins
A visit to the famed ruins of Chichen Itza reveals history, ancient architecture, and wildlife in equal measure. Walk through the complex and hear jungle animal calls as colorful birds fly among the canopy. This is a stirring experience to treasure.
2. Bittersweet bites
The cult of chocolate is well and truly alive in Oaxaca! The flavors here are simply phenomenal and unlike mass-produced chocolate in the Western world. Spiced with chili, cinnamon and cloves, you won’t soon forget the taste of Oaxacan chocolate.
3. Sunshine and snorkeling
Mexico’s Caribbean coastline showcases expanses of clear blue water, white sand beaches, vibrant reefs and plenty of sunshine. Snorkeling over colorful fish and sun-lit coral is simply unforgettable.
4. Mountain majesty
The cooler climate and fresh mountain air of San Cristobal de las Casas provides some respite from the city heat. Chilling out in this relaxed and visually stunning area is a magical Mexican moment.
5. Bus buddies
Catching a local bus in Mexico is a never-ending source of amusement. Overcome the language barrier and make friends with local commuters to pass the time.
6. Tequila!
No visit to Mexico is complete without downing a little bit of the national drink. While you may not remember every detail the morning after, good times and memorable holiday snapshots are guaranteed when tequila is involved.
7. Volcanic splendor
Mexico’s volcanic landscapes are photo-worthy and awe-inspiring. Hiking past rocky escarpments and surreal scenery is a rewarding travel experience to remember.
8. Village people
Sharing smiles and laughs with locals while strolling through the rural villages of Mexico is a simple, yet memorable way to see the real heart of Mexico - its people.
9. Mariachi melodies
Sway to the unique sounds of Mexico’s mariachi music in the streets and cafes of Mexico. The rhythms and beats will live in your heart for years to come.
10. To market, to market
Witness Latin America’s time-honored commercial traditions unfold in Mexico’s well-patronized markets. Hear the banter of stallholders, smell the fragrant scent of sizzling meat and admire the colorful array of wares on offer.
Top places to visit in Mexico
1. Tulum
This coastal town is well-known for its incredible cliff-top Mayan temple ruins with expansive ocean views. But outside of architectural wonders, Tulum also has quite a few natural wonders. Spend some time exploring Tulum's numerous cenotes and caves for unforgettable snorkeling and diving.
Explore Tulum on our 8 day Yucatan Peninsula Adventure or on our 8 day Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights tour.
2. Oaxaca
Numerous significant architectural sites, baroque churches and impressive cultural displays may have landed Oaxaca the badge of Unesco World Heritage Site, but in recent years, the city has gained notoriety as a culinary destination. Make sure to try regional specialties like tlayudas, mole and mezcal.
Get a taste of Oaxaca on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.
3. San Cristobal
Set in a valley surrounded by pine forests, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a bright yellow cathedral, pastel houses and buildings draped in deep pink bougainvillea, making it one of Mexico's most colorful cities. Stop by the local markets to browse locally-made handicrafts with colors that rival those of the city itself.
Explore this colorful city on our 15 day Best of Mexico tour.
Shopping
Travelers will be delighted with the range of good quality shopping available in Mexico. As usual, the markets offer some of the most cost-effective and fun ways to shop, although Mexico’s cities also showcase some excellent boutiques and galleries for more costly purchases.
It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.
Things to buy in Mexico
1. Tiles, ceramics and earthenware
Mexico has a longstanding tradition of creating good-quality pottery. Hit the artisan markets for colorful pots, vases and jugs. Don’t forget to pack carefully.
2. Bright textiles
Woven textiles can be found almost everywhere in Mexico. Hand-woven rugs, blankets, scarves, and ponchos are great reminders of your time in Mexico.
3. Jewelry
The silver in Mexico is among the world's best. Rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring bold Aztec designs are popular choices.
4. Lucha Libre masks
This Mexican wrestling phenomenon is growing in popularity worldwide, so grab a colorful wrestling mask - it’s a great souvenir for kids (and big kids) at home.
Festivals and events in Mexico
Mexico is the land of the fiesta and the locals will find any reason to party. Whether they're celebrating independence, the saints or the dead, you can expect vibrant colors, lively music and a whole lot of dancing. One to keep an eye out for is the Autumn Equinox, when crowds gather at Chichen Itza to witness the sunlight and shadows play tricks on this ancient relic. During the autumn (and spring) equinox, the sun moves across Chichen Itza, illuminating parts of the temple to reveal the moving body of a snake. Not seen on any other days, this natural spectacle draws thousands of pilgrims.
Read more about festivals in Mexico
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
Constitution Day
Benito Juarez’s Birthday Memorial
Labor Day
Independence Day
Revolution Day Memorial
Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe
Please note dates of Mexico's public holidays may vary.
Further reading
Title | Author |
Like Water for Chocolate | Laura Esquivel |
Oh Mexico! | Lucy Neville |
Mexico: Biography of Power | Enrique Krauze |
First Stop in the New World | David Lida |
Rain of Gold | Victor E Villasenor |
Mexico travel FAQs
Mexico is a country of varied landscapes and altitudes and the best time to visit depends on a variety of factors, the first of which is where you actually want to go.
Mexico has long been a popular tourist destination and most travelers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, you can rest assured that Intrepid would not take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe.
All tourists traveling to Mexico need a tourist permit, but not all need a visa. Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand are among those who do not need a visa and can obtain a tourist permit on arrival.
Tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. The service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living. We recommend leaving 10–15 percent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5–10 percent of your room cost for housekeepers, and a few dollars for porters, bartenders and guides.
Internet access is good in Mexico with wi-fi available in most accommodations, bigger restaurants, airports and in some public spaces. It’s also easy and affordable to buy a local SIM card for the duration of your Mexico tour.
If you wish to use your cell phone while in Mexico be sure to activate global roaming before leaving your home country. You should also check with your provider regarding any charges you may incur when overseas.
If you wish to purchase a local SIM card in Mexico, your phone must first be unlocked. For more information on local SIM cards, please read about internet access in Mexico.
It's likely that you will encounter different types of toilets while traveling in Mexico. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.
We do not recommend drinking the water in Mexico.
For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea or coffee.
It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.
Credit cards are generally accepted in Mexico at large stores and most mid- high-range hotels. Some cafes, bars and restaurants may accept card too, but the places with real character – and the best local food – tend to be cash only.
ATMs are available across towns and cities in Mexico. Travelers should not encounter trouble finding an ATM but be wary of international transaction fees. For your own safety, try to use ATMs in daylight hours.
Mexico is renowned for its sunshine and sandy beaches, but the weather can vary depending on the region you’re traveling to and the time of year.
Mexico is becoming increasingly more accepting of same-sex relationships and has laws in place to protect those that identify differently, but it remains a country of strong Catholicism that has historically been hostile towards the local LGBTQIA+ community.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Tourist destinations in Mexico including Mexico City and the resort areas on the Yucatan Peninsula are seeing an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and tourist sights fitted out to accommodate travelers with limitations. That said, it can still be difficult for those with mobility issues and visual and hearing issues, particularly on public transport. We recommend using taxis to move around locally and flying between cities if possible unless, of course, you are on an Intrepid Mexico tour.
If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.
What you pack for your Mexico tour will depend on where you are traveling to. Mexico City, for example, will be much cooler than the coastal areas of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, thanks to its high altitude. In the winter, it can drop down towards freezing at night while reaching 73°F during the day, so it’s important to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum.
Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When traveling with us in Mexico you may find yourself staying in a basic hotel.
Intrepid prefers smaller character-filled hotels and guesthouses than hotel chains. When on vacation in Mexico, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Mexico directly support our foundation partner, Gastromotiva Mexico.
Gastromotiva Mexico
Gastromotiva Mexico is tackling food scarcity and homelessness while promoting a sustainable food movement. Donations help them provide nutritious, balanced meals to community shelters for vulnerable people such as women affected by domestic violence and refugees.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.